Laszlo Egeresi, 37, and Gabor Olah, 25, were arrested after officers carried out warrants at three addresses in Walton acting on information that EU nationals, who were working legally as kitchen staff locally, were being exploited for excessive accommodation, transport and administrative costs.

Following a five-week trial at Kingston Crown Court, the pair, both of Molesey Road, Hersham, were found guilty by a unanimous verdict on one count of human trafficking for the purposes of exploitation and sentenced to a combined jail time of more than 13 years.

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On the rise of reported modern slavery offences in Surrey, Neil Wain, International Programme Director at anti-slavery charity Hope for Justice, said: “A rise in identification rates and reports of offences in Surrey and across the country coming through must actually be seen as a positive.

“It means more cases are being uncovered and more victims have the chance to get the support they need.

“We welcome the fact that more victims of trafficking are being identified and referred for support.

“This is a hidden crime, and there are likely to be tens of thousands of victims in the UK.”

For England and Wales call The Salvation Army’s 24-hour confidential referral helpline on 0300 303 8151 to refer someone or seek advice if you consider yourself to be a potential victim of modern slavery or suspect someone you have come into contact with may be a victim of modern slavery.

Anyone with suspicions can call the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.